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Plan to 'shop local' Saturday for Small Business Day

By LISA LETElisaalete@cableone.net
BLACKFOOT—Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting small local businesses; a day that Idaho state business leaders hope shoppers will take seriously during this crucial holiday season.
Sandy Anderson, executive director of Buy Idaho, hopes that shoppers will take Saturday to seek out the small businesses in their communities and support them throughout the holiday season and into the new year.
"Hitting the big Black Friday sales or buying gifts online with the click of a button might be tempting, but we [at Buy Idaho], suggest you consider shopping at the store down the street instead," Anderson said. "Not only does shopping local keep tax dollars in the state, it helps build a city's character."
Tish Dahmen, executive director of Blackfoot's Chamber of Commerce agreed, adding, "Every dollar that's spent in Blackfoot has a multiplying effect. Those dollars stay in Blackfoot. Keeping local business vibrant and strong has a huge impact on the community. Plus, by shopping local at small independently owned business, you can find usual gifts and unexpected treasures, adding color and definition to the holiday."
Competing with Internet sales has been difficult for retail businesses through the years, especially with the younger clientele, but Anderson reminds shoppers of the personal interaction they get by shopping with small businesses.
"Online shopping might be quicker and less expensive at times, but local companies and the personal interaction and services they provide are what make communities strong and are the businesses that consumers will return to for support," Anderson added.
For more information about Small Business Saturday go to www.facebook.com/SmallBusinessSaturday and watch Saturday's edition of the Morning News for a list of small local businesses throughout the community.